Which statement about the airworthiness certificate transfer is true?

Which statement about the airworthiness certificate transfer is true?

• A. No, it does not transfer
• B. Yes, it transfers but no verification is required
• C. Yes, it transfers, but the buyer must ensure it is current
• D. It transfers only with reissuance

Answer: (C)

The airworthiness certificate stays with the aircraft and passes to the new owner when the title changes. It confirms the aircraft met its approved design and was in airworthy condition when issued, and that status remains part of the aircraft’s records. After a sale, it’s the buyer’s job to verify that the certificate is current—valid and not suspended or expired—and to ensure all ongoing airworthiness requirements are being met (proper maintenance, required inspections, and any outstanding ADs). If the certificate is current, no reissuance is needed simply because ownership changed.

The airworthiness certificate stays with the aircraft and passes to the new owner when the title changes. It confirms the aircraft met its approved design and was in airworthy condition when issued, and that status remains part of the aircraft’s records. After a sale, it’s the buyer’s job to verify that the certificate is current—valid and not suspended or expired—and to ensure all ongoing airworthiness requirements are being met (proper maintenance, required inspections, and any outstanding ADs). If the certificate is current, no reissuance is needed simply because ownership changed.